Villa le Corail, A Gran Meliá Hotel supports coral propagation in Vietnam

Villa Le Corail (formerly known as Gran Meliá Nha Trang), a five-star seafront sanctuary under Gran Meliá Hotels on Vietnam's central coast, has initiated a coral restoration project aimed at rehabilitating Nha Trang Bay's coral reefs for many years to come.

In partnership with Avatar, a sustainable educational tourism company founded by KDI Holdings—the resort's owners—Villa Le Corail, A Gran Meliá Hotel is restoring thousands of square meters of coral along its shoreline.

A conservation project has been launched to restore, rehabilitate, and regenerate Nha Trang Bay’s coral reefs. Photo courtesy of Villa Le Corail, A Gran Meliá Hotel

Climate change has taken a toll on Nha Trang Bay's once-vibrant reefs, leaving them degraded and overgrown with algae.

Coral reefs play a critical role in marine ecosystems, with 25% of all marine species depending on them at some stage of their life cycle. Recognizing this, Villa Le Corail, A Gran Meliá Hotel and Avatar have implemented a comprehensive plan to reverse the environmental decline.

Aligned with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 14, "Life Below Water," the project incorporates coral transplanting, gardening, propagation, and other science-driven initiatives to rejuvenate Nha Trang Bay's coral reefs.

Only 18 months into the project, new corals are already blooming at Villa Le Corail, A Gran Meliá Hotel. Photo courtesy of Villa Le Corail, A Gran Meliá Hotel

Launched in March 2023, the project sets out several milestones.

Within three years, the resort aims to restore the aesthetic beauty of the reef and create eco-tourism opportunities.

In the next three to five years, the plan is to establish extended reef areas, reducing wave energy to protect the shoreline.

By the fifth year, the resort hopes to rehabilitate a wide section of the reef, restoring natural conditions.

Alongside these efforts, educational activities, such as coral talks, planting sessions, and workshops, are designed to inspire guests, particularly young visitors.

To date, 2,100 sq.m of coral reef in the Avatar Coral Garden has been restored. Photo courtesy of Villa Le Corail, A Gran Meliá Hotel

Significant progress has already been made. So far, 2,100 square meters of coral reef in the Avatar Coral Garden have been restored, with another 2,000 square meters designated for a coral nursery. An additional 1,000 square meters of coastline in front of the resort is currently being regenerated, and young corals will be attached by the end of the year. Moreover, a 1,500-square-meter artificial reef has been created to protect the maturing area.

Marine biologists have observed natural reproduction in the corals on these blossoming reefs. As the corals grow, they will attract tropical fish, sea turtles, and other marine species, bringing lasting benefits to Nha Trang Bay and the East Sea.

The initiative has been warmly welcomed by guests, with many taking part in coral planting activities during their stay. These activities are often described as the highlight of their vacation. The resort offers "Exceptional Experiences," such as Coral Discovery, where guests learn to attach coral fragments in the coral nursery or at Tri Nguyen Island, accessible by yacht or catamaran.

For travelers, excursions ranging from two to five hours are available, offering an opportunity to connect with the environment. An estimated 300 young guests and local children have also participated in coral conservation activities at the resort's kids' club.

The resort is inspiring guests to become involved in conservation with a series of immersive experiences and workshops. Photo courtesy of Villa Le Corail, A Gran Meliá Hotel

According to Ignacio Martin Manzano, Area Managing Director for Southeast Asia at Meliá Hotels International, coral propagation is just one element of the resort's "Travel for Good" initiative. Alongside coral restoration, the resort focuses on waste reduction, recycling, energy-efficient solutions, and responsible sourcing to minimize its environmental impact and benefit the broader community.

Looking ahead, Villa Le Corail, A Gran Meliá Hotel plans to restore 50,000 square meters of naturally degraded coral, grow 1,000 square meters of seagrass in its lagoon, and plant 1,000 mangrove trees along the coast.

"We understand that achieving full sustainability is a long journey, but we're happy to be taking these significant steps," Manzano said. "This work will continue for years to come."

Gran Meliá is a prestigious brand under Meliá Hotels International, known for its luxurious hotels and resorts in some of the world’s most beautiful destinations. Each property reflects Spanish hospitality, offering guests "A Life Well Lived" through a connection to the land, understated elegance, and respect for simple pleasures.

Located on Nha Trang Bay’s shores, Villa Le Corail, A Gran Meliá Hotel seamlessly blends the five-star hospitality and style of the Gran Meliá brand with Vietnamese charm and beauty. Just 45 minutes from Cam Ranh International Airport, the resort provides a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure in an exquisite coastal setting.